How to Make Coffee While Camping: A Complete Guide

Camping and coffee are a match made in heaven. There’s nothing quite like waking up in the great outdoors and enjoying a fresh, hot cup of coffee while breathing in the crisp morning air. But how do you make coffee when you’re miles away from a modern kitchen? Whether you’re a casual camper, a hardcore backpacker, or a weekend adventurer, this guide will cover the best ways to brew coffee in the wild.

Essential Gear for Making Coffee While Camping

Before diving into the brewing methods, let’s go over some essential gear you might need:

• Coffee beans or pre-ground coffee – Freshly ground coffee is best, but pre-ground is more convenient for camping.
• Coffee grinder – A hand grinder is a great option for fresh coffee.
• Water source – Clean, filtered water is crucial for a great cup of coffee.
• Heat source – A campfire, portable stove, or even a Jetboil can be used to boil water.
• Coffee maker or brewing method – Choose the best method based on your camping style.
• Mug or thermos – Insulated options are ideal for keeping your coffee hot.
• Spoon or stirring stick – Essential for mixing your coffee properly.

Now, let’s explore the best ways to make coffee while camping.

1. Cowboy Coffee (Traditional and Simple)

Cowboy coffee is one of the simplest and most rustic ways to make coffee outdoors. It requires no fancy equipment, making it ideal for minimalist campers.

How to Make Cowboy Coffee:

1. Boil water – Fill a pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over the campfire or stove.
2. Add coffee grounds – Use about 2 tablespoons of coffee per 8 ounces of water.
3. Remove from heat – Let the pot sit for about 30 seconds to cool slightly.
4. Let it steep – Stir the coffee and let it sit for about 3-5 minutes.
5. Settle the grounds – Add a small splash of cold water to help the grounds settle to the bottom.
6. Pour and enjoy – Slowly pour the coffee into a cup, avoiding the settled grounds at the bottom.

Pros: No special equipment needed, full-bodied flavor.
Cons: Can be gritty if not poured carefully.

2. French Press (Great for Groups)

A French press is a fantastic way to make high-quality coffee while camping, especially if you’re brewing for multiple people.

How to Use a French Press While Camping:

1. Boil water – Heat water to just below boiling (about 200°F).
2. Add coffee grounds – Use coarse-ground coffee (about 1 tablespoon per 4 ounces of water).
3. Pour water – Slowly pour hot water over the grounds.
4. Stir and steep – Stir gently and let the coffee steep for about 4 minutes.
5. Press and serve – Press the plunger down slowly and pour your coffee.

Pros: Makes rich, full-bodied coffee, great for multiple servings.
Cons: Requires a bit more gear and cleanup.

3. Pour-Over (Lightweight and Delicious)

If you want a clean and flavorful cup of coffee, a pour-over setup is an excellent choice. A collapsible pour-over filter is perfect for backpackers and car campers alike.

How to Make Pour-Over Coffee While Camping:

1. Boil water – Heat water to about 200°F.
2. Set up filter – Place a coffee filter inside a pour-over dripper (such as a V60 or collapsible silicone dripper) over your mug.
3. Add coffee – Use medium-ground coffee (about 1 tablespoon per 6 ounces of water).
4. Pour in stages – Slowly pour hot water over the coffee grounds in circular motions, allowing it to bloom for 30 seconds before continuing.
5. Enjoy – Once all the water has passed through, remove the filter and sip away!

Pros: Lightweight, easy to use, and great-tasting coffee.
Cons: Requires filters and a slow pouring technique.

4. AeroPress (Perfect for Espresso-Lovers)

An AeroPress is one of the most versatile coffee makers for camping, offering a strong and smooth brew with minimal effort.

How to Use an AeroPress While Camping:

1. Boil water – Heat water to about 200°F.
2. Assemble the AeroPress – Place a paper or metal filter inside the cap and attach it to the chamber.
3. Add coffee – Use finely ground coffee (about 1 scoop, or 2 tablespoons).
4. Pour and stir – Add hot water, stir for about 10 seconds.
5. Press and serve – Insert the plunger and press down slowly into your mug.

Pros: Compact, quick brewing, and excellent coffee.
Cons: Requires specific filters and a bit of technique.

5. Percolator (Classic Camp Coffee)

A percolator is a time-tested way to make coffee over a campfire, perfect for brewing large amounts.

How to Make Percolator Coffee:

1. Fill with water – Add water to the percolator up to the designated line.
2. Add coffee grounds – Use a coarse grind and place the grounds in the percolator basket.
3. Heat over the fire – Place the percolator over a flame or stove and bring it to a slow boil.
4. Brew and watch – Let it percolate for about 5-10 minutes, adjusting heat as needed.
5. Pour and enjoy – Carefully serve your coffee.

Pros: Great for large groups, strong coffee.
Cons: Heavier gear, requires close attention.

Bonus Tips for Making Coffee While Camping

• Use an insulated mug or thermos to keep your coffee warm.
• Pack pre-ground coffee if you don’t want to bring a grinder.
• Bring a reusable filter to reduce waste.
• Store coffee in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Clean up responsibly by packing out used coffee grounds.

Conclusion

No matter your camping style, there’s a coffee brewing method that suits your needs. Whether you love the simplicity of cowboy coffee, the smoothness of an AeroPress, or the richness of a French press, making coffee while camping can be both easy and enjoyable.

So pack your gear, choose your method, and enjoy your next cup of delicious campsite coffee under the open sky! ☕

What’s your favorite way to make coffee while camping? Let us know in the comments!